Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Studied Homeopathic Remedies

Classical Homeopathic Remedy

Calcarea carbonica

Chamomilla

Pulsatilla

Many women experience a variety of unpleasant symptoms, commonly called premenstrual syndrome (PMS), in the week or two before menstruating. These include irritability, anger, headaches, anxiety, depression, fatigue, fluid retention, breast tenderness, and cramps. These symptoms undoubtedly result from the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle, but we don't know the specific mechanisms involved or exactly how to treat it.

Scientific Evaluations of Homeopathic Remedies for PMS

A 3-month
double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
tested the effects of a homeopathic remedy given in a single dose at the beginning of the trial.
1
Each of the 20 women with PMS symptoms who participated in the trial received a classical homeopathic interview, and was prescribed a personalized homeopathic remedy. Then, half the women received the remedy prescribed to them, and half received placebo.

The results showed significantly fewer symptoms in the treated group.

Another double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of daily treatment with an individualized homeopathic remedy.
2
However, the dropout rate was too high for the results to be interpreted in a meaningful way.

Traditional Homeopathic Treatments for PMS

In classical homeopathy, there are many possible homeopathic treatments for PMS, to be chosen based on various specific details of the person seeking treatment.

The homeopathic remedy
Calcarea carbonica
is often used for PMS when the
symptom picture
includes fluid retention, headaches, breast tenderness, and a feeling of being overwhelmed. Other symptoms associated with this remedy include feeling extremely fatigued and depleted, with cold limbs and difficulty climbing stairs or even walking. Furthermore, these symptoms should worsen with exposure to cold or dampness in the morning, and with exertion.

Homeopathic
Chamomilla
is often used in forms of PMS where anger and irritability are predominant features. Menstrual flow is typically heavy with dark, clotted blood. Heat worsens symptoms, while aerobic exercise reduces them.

Pulsatilla
may be helpful for PMS in young women. Moodiness and a tendency to tears may occur, along with nausea and mild dizziness.

Other Natural Options

For herbs, supplements, and other alternative treatments that may be useful for this condition, see the
PMS
article.

For a thorough explanation of homeopathy, including dilution of therapies, see the
Homeopathy Overview
.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.